“Over a quarter of UK students (37%) are experiencing their state of mental wellbeing changing for the worse since starting higher education.” – Randstad Solutions Ltd
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It is safe to say that the Covid-19 pandemic has had a large impact on our Mental Health & for university students the lockdowns have brought about additional challenges concerning their studies.
University Mental Health Day 2021 is a day in which people come together to raise awareness about Mental Health & to encourage others to talk.
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Mental Health and the Access Card
Mental Health issues affect many of us throughout our lives but for those with long-term needs, the Access Card offers a discreet way to communicate your specific access requirements.
We have provided some more information about some of the typical access requirements we have processed.
Everyone is different and experiences their needs in different ways, but here are some examples based on our experience.
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Essential Companions
Very often having support from another person is critical and this is why we have our ‘+1’ symbol. Different venues & attractions have their own ways of accommodating this symbol.
For example, Mamma Mia! The Party at The O2 offers a free companion ticket for Access Card Holders who have a ‘+1’ symbol on their card. Theme parks like Thorpe Park also offer a free companion ticket, if an Access Card Holder has a ‘+1’ symbol on their card.
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Standing and Queuing
The anxiety caused when queuing or being around crowds can often be an issue so we also have our standing & queuing symbol. This indicates to providers that you may have difficulty with standing & queuing for a period of time.
Attractions such as Legoland Windsor Resort & Chessington World of Adventures Resort can accommodate this access requirement by issuing a Ride Access Pass to Access Card Holders with this symbol on their card.
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Face Mask Exemptions
More recently, throughout COVID, we have had a number of people whose Mental Health issues mean that they find wearing a facemask incredibly distressing and as a response to feedback from our members we now have an additional face mask symbol to show you have a legitimate and verified reason for exemption.
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Thinking of applying for a Card?
If you think the above would be useful for you and would like to apply for your Access Card you can do so quickly and easily by completing our short online application form and uploading some supporting information confirming your needs.
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Further Sources of Information, Advice and Support
Check out our full directory for how these symbols apply at over 1,000 venues in the UK and beyond.
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Student Minds
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“We empower students and members of the university community to look after their own mental health, support others and create change.
Together we will transform the state of student mental health so that all in higher education can thrive.”
Student Minds
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Tel: 0113 343 8440 (please leave a voicemail with your name and contact number)
Web: https://www.studentminds.org.uk/
Email: info@studentminds.org.uk
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The University Mental Health Advisers Network
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“The University Mental Health Advisers Network is a national UK charity. We are the largest network of mental health professionals working in education, and have 17 years experience in the sector. Our members are dedicated to, and have a practical role in, providing support to students with mental health conditions.”
The University Mental Health Advisers Network
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Tel: 07510 734544
Email: umhan@live.co.uk
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Rehab 4 Addiction
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“Rehab 4 Addiction was founded to assist those affected by substance misuse and their loved ones. We offer a range of services, and help signpost you to the most effective treatments. This includes alcohol rehab, drug rehab, detox services, intervention, aftercare and outpatient counselling. Our helpline advisors are committed to helping you in your quest to locate effective treatments for addiction.”
Rehab 4 Addiction
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Tel: 0800 140 4690
Web: https://www.rehab4addiction.co.uk/
Email: info@rehab4addiction.co.uk
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